Category: Fashion

“God, I thank you that I am a chosen vessel!” -Cyvonne Davy

I thank God that I’m a chosen vessel. I was adopted and accepted by God. If you don’t know who He is, His name is JESUS. He picked me. He chose me. I was selected among several others by God. I’m a vessel for God’s Spirit and to carry out his purpose. I am validated in Him. I am who God says I am. For these reasons I am purpose driven. When you realize you were hand-picked by Christ you will not understand. This interview with founder and CEO of Chosen Vessels Apparel touched me, blessed me, and encouraged me! Faint Adams is beautiful, driven, funny, and a boss lady. She is one of the many hardworking women that I am glad to know and introduced to you through this interview. I learned a lot. Enough from me, let us get to why you’re here.

What is Chosen Vessels?

Chosen Vessels Apparel is a Christian Lifestyle brand that has a host of apparel such as t-shirts, hats, totes, etc. Chosen Vessels is a brand that can be worn by people of all ages. It is a brand that believes you can love God and be stylish through your apparel.

What do you believe and how has it influenced Chosen Vessels?

I believe that God gives everyone gifts and talents. It’s up to us, however, to cultivate them. Chosen Vessels is a “Christian” lifestyle brand and everything we put out is meant to make that statement. Whenever you see a CVA shirt, you will know that we strive to spread the love of God in everything we print.

What was the first shirt you ever made? How do you feel about it now?

The first shirt I ever made was a shirt for Christmas when I was about 8 years old. It was something my mother and I would do for the holidays with her grand-kids and myself. I remember it like yesterday; making a shirt for my birthday using puffy paint and making a shirt for Father’s Day for my dad. Since my birthday typically falls in close proximity to Father’s Day, I would find joy in being able to create shirts for him as a gift. Going to Michael’s, Joann’s Fabric and Hobby Lobby always excited me and I can remember the feeling of purchasing hot glue guns, fabric and other crafting supplies. I never imagined that was God cultivating the gifts in me that would one day become my source of income. As far as the first Christian shirt, that was Acts 2:38. What inspired me was wanting to create a witnessing tool on my job.

How do you decide what to sell online or in retail?

Demographics play a huge role into deciding what to sell. Shirts that may be trendy and on high demand in one area, might not be so in another. For instance, in Michigan it begins to cool down around April. That is not the case in Florida. When customers are asking for hoodies there, it make sense to provide them for customers in cooler climates versus in retail in Florida where it is hot during that same time of the year. Additionally, some of our apparel does better in person via vendor opportunities than they do online. For this reason, we’ll take more of those items that we know need to be seen in person in order for the vision to be seen by consumers.

How do you decide what items to incorporate into a line?

Right now, we have about 25 shirt graphics/designs waiting to be released. The majority of our shirt designs come during a church sermon, while reading the bible, or from a thought that I am having. I have come to realize that just because you get an idea, does not necessarily mean that it needs to be released right then. You must truly be willing to figure out what it means for God’s people and when to release it. Ultimately Chosen Vessels is a ministry and we prepare our designs the same as any other minister would decide what sermon to deliver.

What is your strongest truth?

My strongest truth is that if it goes against what you believe and if it goes against God’s word, DON’T DO IT! The temporary reward or gratification may seem to be astounding and too hard to pass up, but if God has something for you, you’ll NEVER have to compromise your beliefs nor His word to receive it.

What are the best shoes to wear with a Chosen Vessels shirt?

That really depends on your style. Believe it or not, I am a sneaker-head, so I’ll match mine with a good pair of J’s. The beautiful thing about our shirts is the versatility. You can literally take the same shirt and pair it with sneakers one day, flip flops the next and then heels, a tulle skirt and a blazer the next. We love to see how our customers wear our shirts based off their own style and personality.

How much power does your customers have?

Hopefully they have that HOLY GHOST POWER!!!! LOL just kidding. I listen to their suggestions and watch the latest trends. There have been times when they’ve given us great suggestions that we incorporated into our designs. What I have found to be true though is that less is more, and you can’t please everyone. So, although we would love to take everything into consideration, we aren’t able to. We do love feedback! It helps us to see if we’ve grown, what we can improve and what their thoughts are concerning the brand.

What differentiates Chosen Vessels from competition?

Firstly, I want to bust a myth. People say if you’re so focused on yourself and your brand, you won’t have time to focus on the competition. I completely disagree. Paying attention to your competition can show you what NOT to do. The apparel business is a huge market and the “Christian” apparel business is huge. Most people and brands use “Christian” lightly and loosely. However, we strive to show in our brand that our God has a name, Jesus, and we’ll use that anytime we can. Like I said before, our shirts make statements and end up being great witnessing tools. For us, it’s not just about money, it’s genuinely about soul winning and witnessing. We love hearing how people have worn our shirts and had an opportunity opened up to talk about the scripture or the saying. Many times, friends have gotten baptized after discussing the shirt or strangers will approach people while working out and ask questions, which is what we want happening. This company literally started because the company we were working with told us we had to quit converting people; but that’s our goal. Witnessing can be hard for some people, so when we hear them say they have used our shirts as a conversation starter and gained the boldness they’ve been desiring, it makes everything worth it. We do what we do for the Kingdom of God, not for ourselves. You don’t have to compromise or collaborate with conflicting values/beliefs to be successful.

How committed are you?

I’m committed so much and love the brand so much that I sacrificed and left my job three months ago to run the business full time. We’re currently wrapping up a three-week summer tour. Our goal was to put the brand in front of as many people as possible.

Who can wear Chosen Vessels?

Anyone who loves God and loves being stylish can wear Chosen Vessels.

Tell us something about your background?

I will tell you something quirky about me: I am a very funny, easy going person BUT I hate being up front in the limelight. I am a behind the scenes person. However, this tour has stretched me outside of my comfort zone. I talked to people for as long as they wanted, but I got nervous the more people found out that I am the owner of the company.

How comfortable are you working with models to build your brand?

I am extremely comfortable working with models. Currently, Chosen Vessels utilizes a group of individuals who have been with the company for several years as models and brand ambassadors. We have used models in various social media posts, stories as well as brand/company videos and photographs.

14) What is the most difficult aspect of being an entrepreneur?

The most difficult aspect is being realistic and being a Saint. We’re not just entrepreneurs or “Christian” entrepreneurs. As a Saint, you might be asked to do things that are against what you believe. Learning how to say no was difficult but extremely necessary. Another difficulty is the fact that social media makes it look super easy, but they don’t see all the late nights and early mornings. Nor do they see the sacrifices. There are so many elements that go into it such as maintaining your spirituality, prayer life, putting each area of your life in its proper place. You MUST be a great manager of your time so that you have time for yourself, your family, and sticking to and maintaining your values despite what other companies may be doing. Many people think being an entrepreneur is simply owning a business. Starting a business is easy, sustaining and maintaining it is an entirely different thing. I’ve learned that you must give people the grace NOT to believe in you. Not everyone is a visionary and that is okay. They might not be equipped to handle your vision. Many entrepreneurs say you must be able keep going even when the excitement is no longer there. There are times where you might not get paid, but God always provides. Often He’ll send someone at the right time to offer an encouraging word that will help you see your “why” and keep going. Being an entrepreneur has increased my faith because it has taught me the true meaning of daily bread.

What should we look forward to from Chosen Vessels?

We just completed our first mini tour which is the kickoff to our brand expansion efforts. We’re also gearing up to launch our fall line in the next month or so.

I truly hope this encourages someone to keep going and continue pressing for their vision. I had my website up for an ENTIRE YEAR before I made my first online sale. NOW there are days where we’ll do 70-75 orders in one day. That aren’t itemized orders, they’re grouped orders. If we itemize them, it would come out to be much more. Entrepreneurship is NOT easy by any means, but it is SO worth it. No one will believe in your vision more than you.

Be sure to follow Faint Adams on Instagram (@ceofaint & @chosenvesselsinc) and Facebook. Subscribe via email for the latest changes, new releases, exclusive offers, sales and more. You don’t want to miss any of it. Chosen Vessels is looking forward to being in Tennessee this October and in California in November. Stay connected so you don’t miss the next tour to your city and state or one nearby.

Have you ever noticed those women who always look so beautifully adorn in a black dress? Or perhaps noticed yourself in a black dress? Of course, you have. You have probably assumed you could never pull that off. What’s their secret? How did they do it so gracefully? Let us talk about THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS! You will thank me later.

We have all heard of “The Little Black Dress” at some point. Some of us own a few. I refer to mine as “The Modest Black Dress”. I’ll explain why a little later. When I hear the LBD I think of elegance, date night, ladies’ night out, all black everything, Coco Chanel, and Audrey Hepburn. Share with us what comes to your mind in the comment section below.

In its original debut, The Little Black Dress was a black cocktail or evening dress that is usually very short. Which is where the “LITTLE” of the black dress comes from. It means more than just a petite dress. The LBD carries a certain persona. One that makes it a closet staple and fashion classic. Credit for The Little Black Dress is often given to fashion designer Coco Chanel and British model Audrey Hepburn. According to Coco Chanel, the qualities of an ideal wardrobe includes lots of black and white, good shoes, plenty of dresses, polish, simplicity and well-fitting clothes. That sounds like elegance, modesty, and class to me.

I believe in modesty. That is why I refer to my LBD as the modest black dress. I cannot wear a very short dress and be modest. The LBD and just the color black is an essential in my closet. It’s simple, elegant, affordable, and versatile. You can dress it up or dress it down. Modesty is elegant and timeless. I will wear black for any event except for daytime in the summer. Read why here “Cool Modest Summer”. I did this recently for some photos I had to take. It won’t happen again unless of course I’m getting paid. It’s just too hot in Florida.

Here’s why you need a LBD:

It’s always in season for styling.

The color black makes the body look slimmer.

EVERYONE looks good in black!

It’s an affordable look.

The Little Black Dress is versatile.

It’s a perfect “go-to” look for ANY occasion.

It is TIMELESS!

Tag us on Instagram in your LBD to be featured on our page and upcoming blog posts.

@ChazaqRose

#ChazaqRose

Check out these beautiful women in their LBD!

“This dress hugs me in all the right places. It’s very comfy and true to my size.”

“My little black dress means being covered while also being cute. The world says less is more, but modesty is everything. The bible says that we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people”, and that is how I feel while wearing my modest black dress.”

“I love my modest black dress because of the boldness.”

“Thanks to Coco Chanel “the little black dress” is synonymous for elegance; well, maybe Audrey Hepburn should take some credit. Either way, I love my little black dress. As a 300 pounds full figured woman, it is difficult to find a dress that doesn’t leave me looking as if I’m wearing an over-sized house dress. You know what I’m talking about- the “big mama dress” also known as a moo moo dress. Add to the fact that I prefer looking modest, makes it even more difficult. This dress is comfortable, stylish, can be accessorized in many ways, ageless, and can be worn anywhere.”

“Dressing modestly can be so stylish and surprisingly marvelous!!!! Black has always been so important in my wardrobe! Worn the right way, black can make you feel like the size (fill in the blank) you used to be. There isn’t much worry for the modest woman with just a few black dresses in the closet! I have an entire drawer and portion of my closet just for these pieces of fashion heaven!!! Though it’s so simple, what isn’t surprising is that us girls can’t do without them!

“A modest black dress is classy and timeless. It’s not a trend, it’s a statement. It’s bold without being loud or flashy. It goes with anything and can be worn anywhere. When you wear it, you are always dressed for the occasion.”

Summer is right around the corner! I want to be super excited but I’m not. It is my least favorite season. I burn easily in the sun and I turn super tan. I absolutely don’t like being hot and sweaty.

I live in Florida and in my opinion, it is HOT regularly. Not to mention the weather is unpredictable. You just don’t really know what season or type of weather you’re going to wake up to. Florida’s weather has its own drum beat. So how does a lady dress modestly and stay cool during the summer? Here’s some of the way I keep my summers modest, stylish, and stay cool without looking like I just migrated from northern winter:

I wear sunscreen, drink lots of water (which I do regularly), and exercise. I don’t stop exercising just because it’s hot outside. I choose cooler times of the day to exercise. I normally prefer to walk or run outdoors but the summer I can tolerate the treadmill. You need to go to the gym or outside to get a nice effective workout in. Buy a mat and some weights, and make it happen at home. I avoid being directly in the sun at all cost. I use a sunscreen lotion of at least SPF 30 to protect my skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Stay hydrated! I can’t stress it enough how important it is to stay hydrated, especially during the summer. Dehydration and heatstroke are real! If you don’t like drinking water I am sorry, but you are missing out on life. Drinking a lot of water helps me maintain a clear and healthier skin. Try infusing your water with your favorite fruit(s) to add natural flavor to it if that will help. One of my favorite combos is strawberries with mint leave or lemon or cucumbers. Infused water is also great for detoxing. I use natural oils and skincare to keep my skin moist without looking greasy. My latest natural skincare beauty products are from shifrabeauty.com. your health and skin will thank you later.

I wear looser fitted and natural fabric clothing. Flowy maxi dresses and skirts are everything during the summer. If I didn’t have anything else to wear I would wear maxi dresses every day. I try to avoid fabrics that will stick to my body if start sweating. I go for the clothes in my closet that is made of breathable fabric. The more natural the fabric the better it is. Cotton is one of the best and most affordable natural fabric. I try not to wear the color black, especially during the day. The color absorbs heat. Even though black will make your body appear slimmer it’s not the best color to wear when it’s hot outside.

I avoid wearing unnecessary accessories. I love making a fashion statement, but a lot of times less is more. The less you carry around the easier it’ll be to stay cool. I have fun with patterns, stripes, and graphic t-shirts. Instead of carrying around my huge day to day handbag I opt out for some of my smaller purses and cross body bags. I don’t know about you but prefer larger handbags because I can carry my entire life in them. However, during the summer I just can’t. It’s too hot for all the extra weight. Now that I have a child I haven’t quite figured out yet how to carry around less. This summer should be interesting.

I wear summer hats. I like wearing summer hats, not just because they’re fashionable but they help protect my face from the sun’s heat. It’s also an enjoyable way to accessorize without doing too much. I like wearing the different type of hats. My choice of hat style depends on what I’m wearing. I like wearing Fedora style hats with maxi dresses and for summer evening outings. I think they’re super chic for summer. For a sporty or casual summer look, I like wearing baseball style hats or a dad cap. When I want to feel and look more feminine or rock a bohemian look I go for a large floppy hat. Chosenvesselsapparel.com has some nice ladies statement dad caps! I have a few and I love them.

I style my hair with summer-friendly hairstyles. I don’t like hair all over my face so when it’s hot outside I especially don’t want hair in my face. I prefer to style my hair in updos or pulled back away from my face. I don’t want any hair sticking to my sweating neck or be the reason why I’m hot and sweating. It’s not a good feeling! I use headbands or head wraps to keep my hair pulled back. It’s another way to accessorize or make a statement without doing too much. I also like hairstyles that allow my scalp to breathe, like box braids or cornrow braids.

I wear cover-ups. To the average person living in Florida wearing cover-ups might sound senseless. Sleeves are okay during the summer. If I need to be out in about during the day I prefer to wear shorter sleeves if it’s modest. They’re better than wearing tank tops and no sleeves. Tank tops are a means to expose skin, they don’t help keep you cool or protected from the sun’s heat. Instead of wearing heavy thick jackets and blazers I wear lightweight coverups and super thin denim. The key is to choose breathable fabrics versus wearing close to nothing.

Last but not at all the least important. I wear the right kind of shoes. There is such a thing. Summer is one of the best times to bring out your open-toe wedges, flats, sandals, and sneakers. I like wearing shoes that are comfortable and leave room for my feet to breathe. The summer’s heat will make it worse if you’re wearing shoes that uncomfortable. If you live in Florida like I do then you understand shy boots are a no for me during the summer. Comfort and breathable is key!

How do you stay cool and modest during the summer?

I love to shop. I enjoy shopping. Whether or not I’m buying anything it’s just something I like doing. I enjoy it even when I’m shopping online. It’s spring, a lot of people, myself included, like to spring clean our closet. If you haven’t read 12 Fashion Staples for Your Closet you are doing yourself and closet a disservice. Before you go on a shopping spree or on a hunt for replacement pieces read it and find out why. Thank me later.

I believe there’s an art to shopping. One does not simply walk into a store and buy the very first thing your eyes land on. Unless you’ve been eying it for a while, it’s a must-have that’s on sale, or a once in a lifetime deal you won’t get anywhere else. I take my time to look around, find the sales or clearance section, look at prices, compare prices of various brands and retail stores. I take time to enjoy the different fashion and styles displayed for the season. I look at colors, patterns, fabrics, and the quality of the clothes (cheaper prices aren’t always worth it). I take in as much as I can, from how the racks are positioned to the set up of the store. Shopping is an experience! This sounds great when you’re shopping at your local mall, retail or thrift stores, right? It can be just as enjoyable online. It’s a matter of mindset. For me, online shopping is equally fun and enjoyable. Depending on your view of the internet world and shopping, online shopping can be an intimidating experience at first. Once you get the hang of it or a feel for it you’ll realize how easy and convenient it is.

Here are some tips from my online shopping experience to help you with yours.

Shop at a secured website

Know your measurements

Read the reviews

Know the company’s shipping terms

Know the company’s return policies

Look for coupon offers and discount codes

Set a budget

Shop at a secured website

You want to always shop at a website that will allow you to use a secure payment method. If several things appear to be out of the ordinary don’t trust the site. It will lessen your chances of identity theft and your funds getting jacked. Make sure the website is legitimate and secured. I like using PayPal as my payment method. It gives me buyers protection and protection against fraudulent activities. It’s also important to check the website’s reputation. You don’t want to shop somewhere that has terrible reviews or customer service. Make sure you can contact someone through email AND phone in case you face any issues while shopping or if there’s something wrong with something you purchased. You especially want to make sure you can speak to someone on the phone if the issue is with your money.

Know your measurements

Clothing sizes vary depending on clothing brand or merchant. It’s important to know your size, especially in centimeters and inches. The online store usually displays them as such instead of the expected small, medium, and large size. You can use a measuring tape to measure your bust, waist, hips, and inseam. If you’re not sure how exactly to do this there are YouTube video tutorials that can help you. You can also visit your local seamstress or tailor to figure this out. While some clothes are true to size others are not. You need to know your size to determine whether to stick to your exact size, buy a size down or buy a size up. THE SIZE CHART IS YOUR FRIEND! Please use it. It may vary slightly depending on the brand or company but is fairly the same overall. It’s a useful guide.

Read the reviews

Customer reviews in the online shopping world are gold. Take some time to read some. You’ll get a real perspective on whatever it is you’re interested in buying. Ads can be deceiving. Most buyers will include photos with their reviews which is even better. Look for reviews that include comments on the size, fit, and material quality of what you want to buy. It’ll help give you a better idea of how something will fit, if it’ll be true to size or if you’ll need to buy a size up or down. Remember ads and online model displays can be deceiving and hyped up so don’t just go off that alone.

Know the company’s shipping terms

A lot of online stores in the United States offers free shipping. Other stores, especially if your shipment is coming from overseas, charge a fair shipping fee. If shipping isn’t free your shipping price is usually based on the shipping option you choose, standard, express or overnight shipping. If shipping is free it’s always my option. Costly shipping is not worth it in my opinion if getting it later than sooner is the only downfall. The length of delivery is often based on the carriers the company uses. i.e. FedEx, UPS, USPS. It shouldn’t take a company more than 2-3 day to ship your package to you. Be sure to check if tracking is provided for you to track your package (s). Some carriers will require a signature or someone to be present at the time of delivery.

Know the company’s return policies

It crucial to know how, when, and if you can return or exchange what you purchase. You might not like what you purchase once you receive it or it might not fit properly. You want to be able to return it. Check the return policy before placing your order. Check how long you have to return things, how much it’ll cost you or if returns are free. You also want to check if you can make exchanges, get your money back or get store credit.

Look for coupons and discount codes

Coupons and discount codes will save you a lot of money on your overall purchase at checkout. Always check out the sales and markdown items. If you can get coupons and discount codes on top of whatever sales offered, it’s worth celebrating. Your bank account and husband will thank you after checkout.

Set a budget

You know your shopping habits and how often you shop. Unless you are a millionaire or have money to blow give yourself a budget. If you’re disciplined in your spending you won’t mind a budget. You want to be responsible with your money. It is easy to overspend and get carried away when your shopping online. It’s much easier than at a local store. It’s really like throwing it all in the bag. It’s not possible to feel the weight of everything you added to your cart. Treat yourself if you can but buy what you need first. A budget will help you smile when you click on your cart and not have to explain to your spouse where all these packages are coming from.

BONUS: sign up for emails and exclusive offers from your favorite stores and company. You will be among the first to know of special offers, discounts, and sales.

Three of my favorite online stores are ASOS.COM, SHEIN.COM, and LOLASHOETIQUE.COM. ASOS is especially great for high-quality clothing and designer’s brands at affordable prices. SHEIN has a lot of trendy clothing at some of the lowest prices in the market. While some of their clothes are exceptionally excellent quality material for the cost others not so much. Don’t expect Louis Vuitton quality material for an $8 dress.

I hope you enjoyed these hacks! If you have some of your own, please share them with me.

Make day to day dressing easier, fun, and enjoyable for yourself. Replace your “I have nothing to wear” in my closet with these 12 wardrobe staples.

PROPER UNDERGARMENTS!

I can not stress enough how important this is. Give some thought to your undergarment and avoid embarrassing fashion crisis. The wrong kind of undergarment can ruin your outfit. Things like a T-shirt bra, versatile bra, the right kind of underwear, a full body slip, and shapers are essentials in a woman’s closet. Proper undergarments are the foundation of a great outfit and feeling confident in your look. I know you love your striped Victoria Secrets bra but try not to wear it underneath your crispy white tee. I have done this. Cringe! Embarrassing.

A LITTLE BLACK DRESS (MODEST BLACK DRESS)

Every woman should have a LBD. It is chic on its own or can be fun with a couple of accessories. It’s a perfect go-to for any occasion. Find one that compliments your figure.

A TAILORED BLAZER

A tailored blazer is great inside and outside of the office. It’s flattering on any size or silhouette. It’s perfect during the cool springs or over a nice cocktail dress.

A BLACK PENCIL SKIRT

A black pencil skirt works well for a quick business formal or casual, and Sunday evening service look. You can dress it down with a chic striped shirt or tee shirt. You can add a blazer for a more sophisticated look.

A WHITE TEE

You can’t go wrong with a nice white T-shirt. It is versatile. You can wear it as is, with a trendy skirt, layer it, or throw a leopard scarf over it. It’s perfect with an oversized or plaid blazer.

A MIDI SKIRT

A midi skirt is very flattering, womanly, and modest. It’s perfect for church and the workplace. I have long legs and honestly think I look the best in midi skirts. It’s very flattering to my long legs.

THE PERFECT JEAN

Every woman needs a couple of flattering jeans. They’re great for your day to day schedule, grocery store runs, casual outings, and semi-formal wear.

A CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT

The possibilities are endless! Whether it’s for the office, a day around town, or your favorite Sunday skirt, a classic white shirt adds simple elegance.

A TRENCH COAT

Trench coats are a classic. You can wear it over just about anything, look and feel comfortable. It’s an investment.

AN EVENING BAG

You don’t NEED a closet full of purses if you have the right kind of purses. A chic handbag or clutch is great to have. It’s perfect for your evening events and girls’ night outs.

BALLET FLATS

You can still look chic or “dressed up” in a nice pair of ballet flats. They great for long days. You can transition from day to night in them. They will look good with your jeans and button-down blouses.

DAY TO NIGHT HEELS

A pair of neutral hue heels is a must-have. It could be black, grey, or nude. Get yourself some classic pumps, strappy heels or sandals, or some ankle boots you can transition from a daytime look to night time wear.